8. Mai 2011
On May 6, 2011, John Styffe and family drove from their home in Zurich, Switzerland to Maiziéres, Normandy to participate in the celebration of the 10th anniversary of the dedication of rue du Major E.G. Styffe. John, is the son of Major Roy Styffe DSO, who was the brother of Major E. G. Styffe. John was accompanied by his wife Verena (Vreni), son Erik, daughter Abbie and her boyfriend, Silvio.
They were welcomed warmly by Marc and Christiane Alexis upon their arrival. After being billeted into lovely bed and breakfast homes, they were invited to the beautiful historic home of Catherine Hillman.
The next day in the company of Christiane they toured the island Le Mont Saint Michel. In the evening they were invited back to the home of Christiane and Marc but before that they paid a visit to the father of Marc where they were give the opportunity to view his fantastic collection of historic pistols.
The next day they visited the city of Caen and the Center for History and Peace. In the evening they were invited to a beautiful home along with the Committee of rue du Major E. G. Styffe.
On May 8th , the day began with a ceremony in memory of the French who had fallen in war. From there they walked into the Church of Maiziéres for a service. Next they drove out to a Canadian memorial where there was another ceremony.
After that everyone was invited back to the community center for a wonderful dinner supplied by the community of Maiziéres. At the end of the dinner John Styffe presented a picture book made by Verena of Major E. G. Styffe to the community. John Styffe and family and some members of the community then drove to the Canadian cemetery where Major E. G. Styffe rests.On their last day in the company of Marc and Christiane they visited the beaches and then finished off with a dinner at the Hillman’s once again.The Styffe family were very thankful for the kind and generous hospitality exhibited by the community of Maiziéres.